The story behind this Audemars Piguet Millenary
With the Millenary, Audemars Piguet unveils an architectural approach to fine watchmaking. This model offers a unique way of reading the time by providing a bird’s-eye view of its movement. Reference 26091OR.OO.D803CR.01 incorporates a technical innovation developed by the manufacture. In the 18th century, the watchmaker Robert Robin devised a specific escapement for clocks. Audemars Piguet has adapted this concept for a wristwatch to eliminate the need for lubrication. This development is accompanied by the ‘dead second’ complication, which forces the second hand to come to a complete stop every second. This jerky movement allows for the reading of absolute time and demonstrates mastery of chronometry.
Case, movement and strap of this Millenary
The oval 18-carat rose gold case measures 47 mm in width. Its design alternates between polished surfaces around the edge of the sapphire crystal and brushed surfaces on the sides. This deeply domed crystal protects an off-centre dial in finely guilloché-engraved silver. The hours and minutes are indicated by skeletonised, blued sword-shaped hands that glide over the Roman numerals. A sub-dial at the bottom of the dial indicates the dead seconds. The open caseback reveals the hand-wound Calibre 2905. This movement, comprising 233 components, beats at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour. Two large mainsprings ensure a power reserve of 168 hours. The watch is worn on a turquoise-blue alligator leather strap fitted with a rose gold folding clasp, and a second brown strap is included with the set.
Why this Audemars Piguet watch
Acquiring this piece is a collector’s endeavour. Production of this model was limited due to the demands of its assembly. Enthusiasts appreciate the contrast between the rose gold case and the technical aspect of the visible movement. This design strikes a balance between a bold aesthetic and watchmaking tradition. This watch is aimed at connoisseurs of sophisticated calibres seeking an unusual complication on their wrist whilst maintaining understated elegance.
Contents and condition
This 2011 model is offered complete. It comes with its original oval presentation box made of precious wood, as well as its original warranty documents. The watch is in good condition. The case has never been repolished and shows minor scratches from wear on the polished surfaces. These marks bear witness to the watch’s history without altering its lines. A polish can be carried out on request to restore it to a like-new condition.
Warranty and delivery
The Swiss Collector guarantees the authenticity of this piece. We offer a 24-month warranty on this model. We accept returns within 10 days in accordance with our terms and conditions. As Switzerland’s leading second-hand retailer, backed by the largest network of shops, we offer online booking for a fitting and collection in-store, or fully secure international delivery.
* Good condition – Watch has been previously worn. Some signs of wear (micro-scratches, wear marks, etc.). Fully functional and tested by our partner watchmakers.
